We chat to Ruby Xu from Lieutenant Coffee Bar in Aucklands, Commercial Bay.
Situated in Commercial Bay Lieutenant Coffee Bar and Eatery is overflowing with ambition and innovation. Boasting a small but considered menu with seasonal offerings designed to delight and satisfy. They promise consistent exceptional small batch coffee alongside delectable and nourishing food. Their house-made treats, to eat in or takeaway, are the perfect complement to their cabinet which is filled daily with sandwiches and salads. It's a small but beautiful site designed to comfort and satisfy your inner city adventures.
"A friendly and positive attitude goes a long way."
What is your most popular dish?
Our most popular dish on the menu is the Free Ranger; a delicious omelette made with free range eggs, confit mushrooms, house tomato sambal, salsa verde, marinated feta and roasted butternut.
From the cabinet; our house made cheddar and chive scones sell out daily!
What is your pick from the menu?
My favourite dish on the menu is the Sergeant Soul; buttermilk fried free range chicken with cheddar and jalapeno cornbread, Louisiana slaw and brown butter BBQ sauce. My favourite sweet treat from the cabinet is the house made brown butter and pretzel blondie, very satisfying after a busy lunch rush.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I have worked in hospitality for 10 years. I am extremely passionate about coffee and the customer experience. I grew up in China, and am drawn to the coastal and city lifestyle that Auckland has to offer. I enjoy seeking out new hospitality operations when I am meeting up with friends, this is a great way to wind down after a busy day at Lieutenant.
What makes your coffee so great?
Our coffee features a custom Lieutenant blend roasted by our friends at espresso workshop, and pairs perfectly with steamed Goodman Fielder permeate free milk. All espresso’s are single origin bean from Colombia. We have a small seasonal menu and a cabinet full of house baked goods.
What is one piece of advice you’d give others starting out in the hospitality industry?
A friendly and positive attitude goes a long way to increase the customer experience and staff satisfaction.
Is there anything else you would like us to know?
Lieutenant is a great spot for a takeaway coffee, sweet treat or a special brunch. If you are shopping near the Commercial Bay precinct, this is a must stop for a caffeine or sugar hit, to dine in or on the run. Also did I mention the Dawn Patrol; coconut and black rice porridge, cardamom, brûlée banana, hazelnut mousse and granola crumb – perfect for warming up on a cold winter morning.
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